Peanuts Movie, The (3/8/2016)

Rated G

Starring the voices of Noah Schnapp, Mariel Sheets, Alexander Garfin, Hadley Belle Miller and
Venus Schultheis

Directed by Steve Martino

I can’t say it’s as good as the originals, but it’s pretty good.

Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the beloved “Peanuts” gang make their big-screen debut, like they’ve never been seen before, in state of the art 3D animation. Snoopy, the world’s most lovable beagle – and flying ace – embarks upon his greatest mission as he takes to the skies to pursue his arch-nemesis The Red Baron, while his best pal, Charlie Brown, begins his own epic quest.

Any time a filmmaker attempts to update or remake a property as loved as The Peanuts, it’s a real gamble…like an “all-in” gamble. The odds of someone taking something you know and love and completely ruining it are astronomically stacked against you. Remember GI Joe, 21 Jump Street and The Lone Ranger. So it’s safe to say most people sitting down to watch The Peanuts Movie had a certain level of anxiety…myself included.

Let me put you at ease, The Peanuts Movie manages to maintain the soul of the comic strip even as it upgrades the visuals.

Speaking of the visuals, the computer-generated characters look fantastic while staying faithful to the comics and classic films. Words still appear above the heads of characters as they write, clouds of dirt still follow Pig-Pen, squiggly lines appear to denote emotions, and Linus’ hair goes nuts when he is shocked. It’s awesome.

Of course the look of Steve Martino‘s film is only a part of the story. The film gets what made each character special and loveable. Snoopy is excitable and resourceful. Lucy is still mean and Linus is full of wisdom. But the story, obviously, focuses on Charlie Brown, and he almost always fails, but gets back up and tries again. He’s the eternal optimist who always sees the good in others. He’s just as funny and endearing as I remember.

And they actually give him a decent story that involves a new girl, friendship, confidence and love.

The true magic of Schulz’s Peanuts remains in the incredible Christmas special. That being said, The Peanuts Movie is a winner. Just like Charlie Brown, the odds were against it and most people thought it would fail, but The Peanuts Movie is “Worth Buying.”

SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
Yes, this is one is great for the whole family.

CONVERSATION STARTER:

1. How would you describe Charlie Brown?


2. Why do you think he never gives up?

Read 1 Corinthians 13:7

Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.


3. When have you been tempted to give up? What happened?


4. What can you do about this to remain hopeful and persevere?